Indian Premier League (IPL) fans may have to wait a bit longer to see Mumbai Indians’ star batter, Suryakumar Yadav, in action as he has been ruled out of the initial matches of the 2024 season due to failing a fitness test.
According to a source familiar with Yadav’s situation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, he did not receive clearance after failing the fitness assessment conducted on Tuesday. Another test is scheduled for Thursday, and only if he passes will he be eligible to participate in the IPL.
With Mumbai Indians set to kick off their campaign against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on March 24, it appears unlikely that the 33-year-old will be available for selection in that match.
Yadav has been sidelined since sustaining an ankle injury during the South Africa tour in December 2023. In January, he underwent surgery in Munich, Germany, to address the issue.
During Mumbai Indians’ pre-season press conference in Mumbai, head coach Mark Boucher stated that they are still awaiting updates on Yadav’s fitness from the Indian team management. Boucher emphasized the need to trust the guidance of the medical team in managing such situations, hinting at past challenges faced due to fitness concerns.
